In 2003, we had a holy union at the Church of St. Andrew’s followed by an amazing reception at Nicotra’s Ballroom.

The holy union was beautiful and the sales team and staff of Nicotra’s were brilliant at handling their first reception for a commitment ceremony.

Vitriolic hatred has flown from the pens and mouths of many Staten Islanders around the issue of same-sex marriage; yet, after the legalization of the same-sex marriage, Nicotra’s ballroom reached out to us and offered to host us as their first gay marriage.

We were stunned and honored by the offer and we were thrilled to accept. Because of the generosity of Nicotra’s Ballroom we were able to legally affirm our 12-year commitment to each other in a beautiful wedding ceremony amongst our family and friends.

We commend Nicotra’s Ballroom for their generosity and their open-mindedness. We, and our families, deeply thank them.